Halong Bay: Kayaking, Titop Island Hike & Surprise Cave Day Tour

Summary

Kayak halong bay swim white beaches hike titop island cave lunch

You’ll cruise through Halong Bay’s limestone peaks, kayak close to hidden coves, hike up Titop Island for panoramic views, and walk through the cool chambers of Surprise Cave. With hotel pickup from Hanoi and lunch included, you’ll get both adventure and quiet moments—like floating in emerald water or sharing a laugh with your guide.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the bus ride from Hanoi to Halong Bay to be so lively—our guide Minh cracked jokes in both English and Vietnamese, and someone in the back kept humming a pop song. The air smelled faintly of wet earth when we finally stepped off at Tuan Chau harbor. I’d seen photos of Halong Bay before, but seeing those karst cliffs poke out of the mist for real… it’s almost like they’re floating. We boarded the boat around noon, and I remember thinking how the deck felt cool under my hands—maybe because of the light drizzle that morning.

Lunch was served as we cruised past these wild shapes in the water—lots of ginger and lemongrass in the dishes, which I love. Minh pointed out a rock that looked like a chicken (I still don’t really see it), and then handed out life jackets for kayaking. Paddling close to those cliffs is quieter than you’d think; just our paddles tapping the surface and distant laughter from another group. There was this moment where I just stopped paddling to watch a fishing boat drift by—two kids waved at us, grinning.

Afterwards we headed into Surprise Cave (Hang Sung Sot). The air inside was cooler, almost damp on your skin, and Minh told us how locals used to shelter here during storms. It’s bigger than I imagined—some parts echo if you laugh too loud (which happened when someone slipped on a wet step). Climbing up Titop Island was harder than I thought—420 steps is no joke—but reaching the top felt worth every gasp. The view over Halong Bay is something I still think about; all those islands scattered like puzzle pieces. We had time for swimming too—the sand was gritty but soft enough underfoot. My legs were jelly by then but honestly, floating in that green water felt pretty good.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Halong Bay cruise with kayaking and hiking

• Pick up from Hanoi Old Quarter hotel
• Cruise depart from Tuan Chau harbour
• Have lunch on the boat
• Visit Halong Bay by boat
• Kayaking or local sampan boat ride
• Visit Surprise Cave (Hang Sung Sot)
• Visit Titov Island for swimming and beach
• Hike Titov Peak for panoramic view
• Return cruise to harbour
• Drop off at Hanoi Old Quarter hotel

Top questions

How long does the Halong Bay day tour take?

The tour lasts about one full day, including transfers between Hanoi Old Quarter and Halong Bay.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip?

Yes, pickup and drop-off at hotels or accommodation in Hanoi Old Quarter are included.

What activities are included on this Halong Bay tour?

You’ll kayak or take a bamboo boat, visit Surprise Cave (Hang Sung Sot), swim or relax on Titop Island beach, hike up Titop Peak, and enjoy lunch on board.

Are entry fees covered in this tour price?

Yes, all entry fees for Surprise Cave and Titop Island are included.

Is there an English-speaking guide?

Yes, an English-speaking guide accompanies you throughout the trip.

Can vegetarians be accommodated for lunch?

Yes, vegetarian options are available if requested at booking.

Is kayaking mandatory or can I choose another activity?

You can choose between kayaking or riding a local bamboo sampan boat instead.

Are there any age or fitness restrictions?

The tour is suitable for most fitness levels but not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip transfer by air-conditioned bus from your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter to Halong Bay, entry fees for Surprise Cave and Titop Island, kayaking or bamboo boat experience, two bottles of water per person on the bus, sunset tea with cake and fruit after activities, a Vietnamese lunch onboard (vegetarian option available), plus guidance from an English-speaking local guide before returning to Hanoi in the evening.